Foxies turn back Flying Titans in five

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

At A Glance

• Mylene Paat-Rezanova and Trisha Tubu anchored the Foxies particularly in the crunch, where they scored crucial hits en route to their second win in three games.

Mylene Paat-Rezanova. (PVL Images)

Farm Fresh dug deep from 0-2 set deficit and outhustled Choco Mucho, 20-25, 26-28, 25-23, 25-23, 15-13, in the PVL All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, Oct. 22.

Mylene Paat-Rezanova and Trisha Tubu anchored the Foxies particularly in the crunch, where they scored crucial hits en route to their second win in three games.

Farm Fresh also handed Choco Mucho its first loss after back-to-back wins.

Rezanova sizzled with 15 points highlighted by four blocks, while Tubu fired 14 points including 13 attacks -- none more important than the running spike that sealed the victory.

After dropping the first two sets, the Farm Fresh Foxies refused to fold, regaining their rhythm to force a deciding fifth set.

The Foxies seized early control of the decider, racing to a 6-3 lead, but Choco Mucho fought back to keep the match close.

A costly service error by Eya Laure handed Farm Fresh match point at 14-12, but the Choco Mucho star quickly redeemed herself with an off-the-block attack to keep the Flying Titans’ hopes alive.

But Tubu was there to the rescue.

Jonna Perdido also finished with 11 points for the Foxies, who overcame the Flying Titans’ rock-solid net defense of 17 blocks.

Sisi Rondina and Laure scored 22 and 18 points, respectively, in a losing cause for Choco Mucho.

Nxled, PLDT brace for early marquee showdown

 Nxled seeks to start its campaign on a high note. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Oct 12, 2026 12:48 pm

At A Glance

Game is at 6 p.m. after Farm Fresh and Galeries Tower raise the curtain at 1 p.m., and the Spikers' Turf match pitting Criss Cross and AFP at 3:30 p.m.

Nxled opens its title campaign with the anticipated return of Brooke Van Sickle when it collides with the dangerous PLDT side on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in the PVL All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Game is at 6 p.m. after Farm Fresh and Galeries Tower raise the curtain at 1 p.m., and the Spikers’ Turf match pitting Criss Cross and AFP at 3:30 p.m.

Nxled and PLDT promise an explosive showdown particularly with Van Sickle expected to be back into the fold after missing the recent Invitationals due to a minor shoulder injury.

The many-time MVP is anticipated to be reunited with Myla Pablo and MJ Phillips in forming the Chameleons’ deadly triumvirate, along with Jonah Escamillan, Jovelyn Fernandez and Djanel Cheng.

Jackie Acuña and Gel Cayuna, who are former Cignal standouts, are also out to provide additional firepower.

But facing PLDT would not be easy.

Armed with championship pedigree, the High Speed Hitters have already established themselves as one of the formidable teams in the league.

Expected to challenge Van Sickle, Pablo and Phillips are PLDT’s own trio of Savi Davison, Kianna Dy and Majoy Baron, along with Mika Reyes, Kim Fajardo and libero Kath Arado.

In the other pairing, the Farm Fresh-Galeries Tower matchup also offers plenty of intrigue, with the Foxies leaning on league MVP Trisha Tubu, Ces Molina and Royse Tubino to take care of their offense.

The Highrisers, for their part, have an equally talented roster with Aiza Pontillas leading the charge along with Jean Asis and Erika Raagas.

Ho Chih Minh, EST Cola stun PLDT, Nxled to stay in hunt

EST Cola celebrates a point. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Sep 5, 2026 10:58 pm

The Vietnamese spikers shocked defending champions PLDT High Speed Hitters, 28-26, 19-25, 25-21, 25-16, to crawl out of a 0-2 hole and notch their first victory, while the Thai crew overcame a 1-2 set deficit to survive the Nxled Chameleons, 26-24, 21-25, 21-25, 30-28, 15-12, to improve to a 2-1 card.

Guest teams Ho Chih Minh and EST Cola stunned their local rivals to keep their finals bids alive in the PVL Invitational at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday, Sept. 3.

The Vietnamese spikers shocked defending champions PLDT High Speed Hitters, 28-26, 19-25, 25-21, 25-16, to crawl out of a 0-2 hole and notch their first victory, while the Thai crew overcame a 1-2 set deficit to survive the Nxled Chameleons, 26-24, 21-25, 21-25, 30-28, 15-12, to improve to a 2-1 card.

Cang Thi Kim Thanh and Ho Thi Bich Diep led the Vietnamese assault with 19 and 18 points, respectively, overshadowing the joint efforts of Kianna Dy and Savi Davison, who pumped in 25 and 16 points for PLDT.

Dang also teamed up with Dao Thi Nhung to fuel their offense, combining for 30 of the team’s 64 attacks.

PLDT absorbed its second straight loss in three games.

EST Cola, meanwhile, turned to the troika of Phoontham Papatchaya, Moonhakham Nannaphat and Srikuta Nirarach as they erupted for 26, 22 and 21 points in destroying Nxled’s rock-solid net defense.

The Chameleons swatted away 24 blocks -- six each from Jonah Sabete and MJ Phillips -- but their efforts still failed to stop the barrage of attacks from their Thai counterparts as EST Cola still managed 72 kills.

Natnicha Saelao was also instrumental in EST Cola’s assault by converting 27 excellent sets.

Creamline stays unscathed; EST Cola sweeps Farm Fresh

Creamline notches its second win in two outings. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Sep 1, 2026 08:37 pm

Creamline routed Ho Chih Minh City, 25-18, 25-16, 25-6, to remain unscathed, while EST Cola swept Farm Fresh, 25-21, 25-16, 25-22, to barge into the win column in the PVL Invitational at the Smart Araneta Coliseumon Tuesday, Sept. 1.

The Cool Smashers exposed the Vietnamese’s lethargic plays, needing 61 minutes to dominate the guest team for their second straight win in as many outings.

Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza and Jaja Santiago-Minowa paced Creamline with 12 points apiece, including combined 21 kills from Carlos and Galanza, and three blocks from Santiago-Minowa.

So dominant were the Cool Smashers that they overpowered the Vietnamese spikers on attacks, 49-19; blocks, 11-4; and aces, 5-3.

None from Ho Chi Minh City scored in twin figures with skipper Dang Thi Kim Thanh and Le Thi My Xuyen pacing only eight and six points, respectively, as they absorbed their second straight loss.

Earlier, EST Cola made its title bid to improve its record to 1-1 behind the efforts of Papatchaya Phontham.

Phontham blasted 17 points built on 13 kills, three aces and one block to shackle Farm Fresh, which struggled despite the 15-point effort of Trisha Tubu.

PVL Invitational fires off on Monday

 The PLDT High Speed Hitters are poised to defend their PVL Invitational title. (PVL Image)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Aug 30, 2026 12:48 pm

The High Speed Hitters raise the curtain when they take on Thai guest team EST Cola at 1:30 p.m., while fancied Creamline and Nxled square off at 4 p.m. Vietnamese squad Ho Chi Minh and Farm Fresh clash in the 6:30 p.m. nightcap.

Six teams bannered by defending champion PLDT open their respective title campaigns when the PVL Invitational Conference fires off at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Monday, Aug. 31.

The High Speed Hitters raise the curtain when they take on Thai guest team EST Cola at 1:30 p.m., while fancied Creamline and Nxled square off at 4 p.m. Vietnamese squad Ho Chi Minh and Farm Fresh clash in the 6:30 p.m. nightcap.

There will be little time for the six participating teams to rest, with the tournament set to run for six playdates in eight days, making every game crucial.

PLDT coach Rald Ricafort has plenty of weapons at his disposal in setting the tone for their title-retention campaign, with Savi Davison, Kim Dy and Alleiah Malaluan at the forefront of their assault.

Majoy Baron and Mika Reyes are also there to provide support for the squad, which seeks to regain its championship ways after finishing third in the last All-Filipino Conference.

EST Cola, however, is no pushover with the team parading Thailand’s Under-20 national team that placed fourth in its first appearance in 2024.

Hitters Papatchaya Phontham and Nannaphat Moonjakham, middle blocker Waruni Kanram, and liberos Jiratcha Naoprachum and Nichakorn Wansuk anchore the team, boasting of familiarity after having played together in last year’s VTV International Cup.

Meanwhile, Creamline is expected to showcase its veteran crew reinforced by Jaja Santiago, where she joins forces with Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza and Pangs Panaga in their bid to regain the crown they last won in 2024. They are set to challenge the equally talented Nxled frontline composed of Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo and MJ Phillips.

The Farm Fresh-Ho Chi Minh tussle is equally enticing, with the Vietnamese expecting to pull off a surprise against the Foxies, which has skipper Ces Molina teaming up with Ara Galang.

Another tough test awaits Alex Eala in Cincinnati

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Aug 123 2026 03:08 pm

At A Glance

• Eala awaits the winner between Elena-Gabriela Ruse and Magda Linette -- two players whom she has previously faced.

Philippines' Alexandra Eala hits a return to United States' Caty McNally during a National Bank Open tennis match in Toronto on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026. (Chris Young/The Canadian Press via AP)

Another stern test awaits Alex Eala as she finds herself in the bottom half of the draw at the Cincinnati Open in Ohio, which fires off on Thursday, Aug. 13 (Friday, Aug. 14, Philippine time).

The 21-year-old Filipina secured an opening-round bye after being seeded 17th in the WTA 1000 tournament, which serves as a prelude to the season’s final Grand Slam, the US Open, set later this month.

Eala awaits the winner between Elena-Gabriela Ruse and Magda Linette -- two players whom she has previously faced.

Eala played against Ruse in their first and only meeting at the  2024 US Open third qualifying round, where the Filipina lost in three sets.

The world No. 20 has also won her last two meetings with Linette, taking their Round of 32 clash at the 2026 Miami Open and their quarterfinal encounter at the ASB Classic in New Zealand.

Eala, however, dropped their first two encounters at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Open and the 2025 Nottingham Open.

A potential showdown against reigning Wimbledon champion and sixth seed Linda Noskova also awaits Eala deeper into the draw, while other notable players in her bracket are two-time Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova, No. 27 Clara Tauson, No. 15 Sorana Cirstea and third seed Jessica Pegula.

Ranked No. 20 in the world, Eala is riding the momentum of her breakthrough WTA Tour title at the Mubadala DC Open last week and her fourth-round finish at the National Bank Open in Toronto, Canada early this week.

Obiena clinches second straight gold medal in Germany

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Aug 6, 2026 02:09 pm

At A Glance

• The two-time Olympian cleared 5.83 meters, dominating the 12-player field on his way to his second straight tournament gold medal.     
• EJ Obiena showed his readiness in defending his Asian Games title after capturing the gold medal in the International Stabhochsprung Meeting in Jockgrim, Germany on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

The two-time Olympian cleared 5.83 meters, dominating the 12-player field on his way to his second straight tournament gold medal.

Last week, he ruled the International Stabhochsprung Meeting in Domplatz in Halberstadt also in Germany.

Qatar’s Siefeldin Abdelsalam also cleared the same height at 5.83m, but settled for the silver medal via countback.

Olympian Ersu Sasma of Turkey bagged the bronze with 5.77m.

“Was far from smooth competition and some struggles during warm up and earlier bars but happy to scrape an 80 bar. We continue to work and now a few (trainings) in before we go again,” Obiena wrote on social media.

Obiena skipped the opening 5.30m height and entered the competition at 5.45m, clearing the bar on his second attempt.

He then sailed through 5.60m and 5.70m, building enough momentum to skip 5.77m and go for 5.83m, which he topped on his first try.

After passing on 5.88m, Obiena raised the bar to 5.93m but was unsuccessful.

Chameleons thump Solar Spikers to finally nail first win

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Jul 30, 2026 06:56 pm

At A Glance

• Veteran spiker Myla Pablo spearheaded the Chameleons' assault with an all-around game of 12 points, four blocks and one ace to finish with 17 points for their first win in two outings.  

Myla Pablo scores for Nxled. (PVL Images)

Nxled made short work of Capital1, 25-17, 25-23, 25-18, to finally barge into the win column in the PVL On Tour at the Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on Saturday, July 25.

Veteran spiker Myla Pablo spearheaded the Chameleons’ assault with an all-around game of 12 points, four blocks and one ace to finish with 17 points for their first win in two outings.

The victory somehow erased the sting of a four-set loss to the Creamline Cool Smashers in Ilagan City two weeks ago.

Nxled coach Guidetti Ettore said they tried not to put too much pressure on the game.

“To be honest, I think we just really enjoyed playing today. It was super fun,” said Ettore.

He added they are slowly trying to work on their cohesion with veteran setter Gel Cayuna, who was acquired off-season.

“The setter is basically the coach on the floor, so it’s super important for us to create connection,” Ettore said. “Today, we have some examples of misunderstanding with some combos and this is something that we have to develop day by day.”

Cayuna delivered 17 of the team’s 25 excellent sets for the Chameleons, who saw mostly everyone contributing a little of everything. Jonah Sabete also stepped up for Nxled with 13 points.

While the Chameleons were solid offensively, they also banked on their defense with Pablo and Sabete combining for six of the team’s 10 blocks.

They also limited the Solar Spikers to 34 kills, with no player scoring in double figures.

Shaya Adorador was the best performer for Capital1 with six points.   

PLDT turns back gritty Choco Mucho in Vigan

 

Kianna Dy steps up for PLDT. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

The High Speed Hitters drew strength from their solid offense anchored on Kianna Dy, Savi Davison, Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron to notch their first win in the tournament.

PLDT overcame a second-set hiccup to turn back Choco Mucho, 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18, and start its PVL On Tour campaign on a high note at the Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on Saturday, July 25.

The High Speed Hitters drew strength from their solid offense anchored on Kianna Dy, Savi Davison, Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron to notch their first win in the tournament.

Dy erupted for 16 kills to finish with 17 points for PLDT, while Davison was equally unstoppable by pumping in 13 points.

Reyes also shone by posting 10 attacks and two blocks for 12 points, even as Baron chipped in 10 points.

PLDT waxed hot at the attack line by pouring 66 kills compared to Choco Mucho’s 55 -- big thanks to the playmaking skills of Kim Fajardo, who delivered 26 of the team’s 31 excellent sets.

While Davison and Reyes stepped up in the offense, the dynamic duo also took charge in the team’s net defense by combining for five of the squad’s eight blocks.

Caitlyn Viray and Isa Molde led the Flying Titans with 16 and 14 points, respectively, but their efforts went futile as Choco Mucho absorbed its second straight defeat in as many outings.

Filipiñana, a tale of a teenage golf caddy, set for New York screening

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Jul 17, 2026 08:13 pm

At A Glance

• The film explores a satirical take on post-colonial class divisions through the story of Isabel, a teenage golf caddy who develops an attraction to Dr. Palanca, the president of the country club where she works.

Promotional film poster. (IMDB)

A 2026 coming-of-age film centered on a 17-year-old “tee girl” -- now known as a golf caddy -- is scheduled to open at New York City’s historic Film Forum next month.

“Filipiñana”, the feature film debut of writer-director Rafael Manuel, has quietly garnered accolades on the international film festival circuit since premiering at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where it won the Special Jury Award for Creative Vision in the World Cinema category. The film was also nominated for the festival's Grand Jury Prize for Dramatic Features.

In May, Manuel also received the New Directors Award at the San Francisco International Film Festival for the movie.

The film explores a satirical take on post-colonial class divisions through the story of Isabel, a teenage golf caddy who develops an attraction to Dr. Palanca, the president of the country club where she works. Her infatuation takes a dark turn as she uncovers the violence lurking beneath the club’s polished facade and discovers a disturbing connection between them rooted in the past.

Creamline turns back Nxled to kick off PVL on Tour bid

 

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Jul 8, 2026 09:31 pm

Playing without Jen Nierva and Jia De Guzman, who were loaned to Alas Pilipinas as it prepares for September's Asian Games in Aichi, Japan, the Cool Smashers still had more than enough firepower to get the job done to kick off their campaign in style.

Creamline flaunted its depth despite missing key players as it overcame Nxled, 25-18, 25-23, 18-25, 25-19, in the PVL On Tour at The Capital Arena in Ilagan City, Isabela Wednesday night, July 8.

Playing without Jen Nierva and Jia De Guzman, who were loaned to Alas Pilipinas as it prepares for September's Asian Games in Aichi, Japan, the Cool Smashers still had more than enough firepower to get the job done to kick off their campaign in style.

Michele Gumabao bannered the crew with 18 points including 16 attacks, while Lorie Lyn Bernardo added 13 points built on 12 kills and one block.

Ishie Lalongisip had nine points, while Jema Galanza and Rosemarie Vargas contributed eight points apiece.

Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses also lauded his young players for stepping up when needed most.

“Siyempre nire-remind ko lang sila na nasa pro na sila, kailangang magtrabaho at mag-enjoy sila kasama ng Creamline,” he said.

Malakas naman ang loob nila at sumusunod naman sila, so sana magtuluy-tuloy,” he added.

With Brooke Van Sickle sidelined by a minor right shoulder tear, Nxled looked to MJ Phillips and EJ Carino for offense, but their 13- and 12-point efforts were not enough to prevent the loss.

Risa Sato returns to PVL -- this time, for Akari

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Jul 2, 2026 06:16 pm

At A Glance

• The team made the announcement on Thursday, July 2, with the 31-year-old middle blockers expected to add depth and experience to the squad.

Photo from Akari Chargers

Risa Sato returns to the Premier Volleyball League -- this time, for the Akari Chargers.

The team made the announcement on Thursday, July 2, with the 31-year-old middle blockers expected to add depth and experience to the squad.

“Welcome to Akari, Risa Sato!” the team posted on social media.

“Ready to bring in her championship experience and energy, Risa will be a huge boost for the Chargers. Let’s go!” it added.

Sato previously played for BaliPure from 2016 to 2017 before joining multi-titled championship squad Creamline Cool Smashers from 2018 to 2024.

She suited up for Chery Tiggo in 2025 prior to its disbandment before stepping away to give birth to her first child.

With Sato on the fold, she is expected to join forces with fellow middle blockers Fifi Sharma and Ced Domingo.

Gel Cayuna, Jackie Acuña join Nxled Chameleons

 

Gel Cayuna, left, and Jackie Acuña. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published May 24, 2026 07:48 pm

At A Glance

The team made the announcement on social media on Saturday, May 23, welcoming the two players from Cignal, which took a leave of absence from the league.

The Nxled Chameleons have acquired Gel Cayuna and Jackie Acuña to bolster their roster for the upcoming Premier Volleyball League season.

The team made the announcement on social media on Saturday, May 23, welcoming the two players from Cignal, which took a leave of absence from the league.

“A decorated setter is about to GEL with the Chameleons. Welcome to #NxledNation, Gel Cayuna,” the post read.

“JAC ATTACK (AND BLOCK) IS HERE! Welcome to #NxledNation, Jacqueline Acuña!” it added.

Cayuna, a native of Zamboanga del Norte, has won the Best Setter award multiple times in the league, including in the recent All-Filipino Conference. She previously played for the Perlas Spikers in 2021 before joining Cignal in 2022.

Acuña, for her part, is a former league Best Middle Blocker.

The two are expected to join forces with an already loaded lineup that include Brooke Van Sickle, MJ Phillips, and Myla Pablo, among others.

Creamline finds its way back -- but the story isn't over yet

 

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Apr 18, 2026 11:14 am

At A Glance

• But this time, the Cool Smashers are back where they belong, and they are determined to make it count.

Creamline is looking for a record-extending 11th PVL title. (PVL Images)

It has been some time since Creamline found its way back to familiar ground -- the finals -- but the Cool Smashers are embracing the moment with gratitude as they look to further strengthen their dynasty in the Premier Volleyball League.

The Cool Smashers punched their 15th finals appearance in league history at the expense of the Farm Fresh Foxies last Thursday, April 16 -- a feat they last achieved in 2024.

Over the next three conferences since that title win, however, Creamline’s once-dominant reign showed signs of wear, settling for third place in the PVL On Tour and Invitational before sliding to a conference-worst sixth-place finish in the Reinforced.

But this time, the Cool Smashers are back where they belong, and they are determined to make it count.

For Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses, it all comes down to how the team has leaned on its experience to shape what they have become today.

“One year din kaming hindi nakapasok sa finals. Merong mga ups and downs. Pero ang mahalaga sa amin, kung paano kami naka-recover,” said Meneses.

“Andun pa rin yung trust namin sa isa’t isa. Mahalaga rin na andun pa rin yung mga kasama mo kahit anong mangyari,” he added.

With teams getting stronger and talent across the league deepening, this conference tested Creamline’s skill, chemistry and cohesion.

In the end, the Cool Smashers showed that their championship core and wealth of experience made the difference, especially in the tournament’s crucial stretches. They went through do-or-die matches a couple of times before reaching this round where they seek a record-extending 11th league title.

“Maraming teams talagang lumakas na, at naglevel-up na rin ang mga players, pero yung Creamline, yung championship core namin, andyan pa rin,” said Meneses.

“Siguro yan yung advantage namin, yung lalim ng chemistry ng team namin. Yung mga seniors ng team, yung talent andyan pa rin,” he added.

Bernadeth Pons echoed the sentiment, although the hard-hitting spiker admitted she was confident they would return to where they were.

“Hindi pa start yung conference, kumpiyansa na ako sa team na kaya naming makabalik sa finals. Although shaky start, given na iba na labanan ngayon. Kahit papaano na-survive namin at meron pa rin kaming chance na makuha yung title,” she said.

Game 1 of the finals is set on Tuesday, April 21, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, while Game 2 will be on Thursday, April 23, at the same venue.

Game 3, if necessary, will be next Tuesday, April 28, also at the same venue.

Rebuilt and recharged: Cignal's journey bears fruit as it eyes breakthrough PVL title

 

Cignal's journey is far from over. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Apr 16, 2026 01:50 pm

But the job is far from finished. While the Super Spikers have already showcased their resilience and growth, they are now setting their sights on a long-awaited breakthrough title.

Two years into its rebuilding stage, Cignal has returned to familiar territory after securing a finals berth in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

But the job is far from finished. While the Super Spikers have already showcased their resilience and growth, they are now setting their sights on a long-awaited breakthrough title.

“It’s hard for us to answer kasi parang, we can’t explain how deep this is for us,” said Vanie Gandler, who has been instrumental in Cignal’s run including in their 25-13, 13-25, 25-16, 25-16 victory over fancied Creamline a few days back that sealed their spot in the championship round.

“Kasi we know how hard we worked for this. I just have so much gratitude for the team kasi we just want the best for each other,” added the feisty spiker, who erupted for 24 points in that match.

The road to this stage has been far from easy, marked by adjustments and transitions that proved challenging to navigate. After a runner-up finish in the 2024 Invitational, the team saw the departure of several core players, forcing them to rebuild and reinvent around a refreshed lineup.

They failed to replicate that finals run in the following conference, slipping to ninth place in the 2024-25 All-Filipino before briefly bouncing back with a fourth-place finish in the PVL On Tour.

They failed to sustain that semis run in the next two conferences, though, finishing fifth in the Invitational, and seventh in the Reinforced.

But the Super Spikers have shown that patience and perseverance can go a long way, and those efforts are now starting to pay off.

“Sobrang dami ng sakit na naramdaman namin, siguro for how many years and conferences talagang hindi kami nainip. Tinanggap lang namin yung mga bagay na kailangan nating matanggap and sobrang natuto kami dun,” said Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos.

“Good thing kasi di kami nag-give up and yeah, sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam na papasok kami sa finals,” he added.

With Vanie Gandler, Erika Santos, Roselyn Doria, Tin Tiamzon, and Gel Cayuna forming the core, Cignal now awaits its finals opponent, as Creamline and Farm Fresh battle for the other berth at press time.

In the meantime, the Super Spikers aim to sustain their momentum as they take on PLDT, also as of press time.

Valdez shines as Creamline downs Akari, makes return trip to PVL semis

Alyssa Valdez shines for Creamline. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Apr 7, 2026 09:31 pm

The Cool Smashers displayed their championship poise against the persistent Chargers with Alyssa Valdez flashing her vintage form to complete the semifinal cast.

Creamline turned back a gritty Akari, 25-23, 25-20, 16-25, 25-16, for a return trip to the semifinals in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Filoil Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday, April 7.

The Cool Smashers displayed their championship poise against the persistent Chargers with Alyssa Valdez flashing her vintage form to complete the semifinal cast.

They join Farm Fresh, PLDT and Cignal.

Valdez was unstoppable at the attack line, pumping in 19 kills to finish with 20 points, while three of her teammates also scored in double figures to outshine Akari’s own frontline bannered by Ivy Lacsina, Fifi Sharma, Ced Domingo and Eli Soyud.

“I’m speechless. We’ve been through so much as a team – a lot of struggles and challenges – but little by little, we still found a way to reach the semifinals,” said Valdez.

“We just stayed true to our culture. Even when we were struggling, we kept working until we found our footing during a very challenging time,” she added, 

Bernadeth Pons likewise sizzled in the offensive lane, firing all her 13 points on attacks, while Pangs Panaga took charge of their defense by posting four blocks to finish with 12 points.

Tots Carlos chipped in 10.

The Cool Smashers continued to bank on their explosive offense, managing 59 attacks compared to the Chargers’ 48 -- big thanks to the playmaking skills of Kyle Negrito, who had 23 excellent sets.

Lacsina and Sharma had 13 and 12 points, while Soyud and Domingo scored 11 points apiece, but their efforts for Akari went futile.

PLDT drubs Galeries Tower, wrests solo lead

 

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Mar 10, 2026 06:27 pm

At A Glance

• The victory extended PLDT's winning streak to three games, improving its record to 6-1 to wrest the solo lead.

PLDT scores its sixth win at the expense of Galeries Tower. (PVL Images)

PLDT flexed its might and dominated Galeries Tower, 25-18, 25-22, 25-17, to zero in for a spot in the qualifying round in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Filoil Centre in San Juan City on Wednesday, March 11.

The High Speed Hitters were in full control of the 73-minute match, with veteran setter Kim Fajardo anchoring the team’s balanced offense. She tallied 15 excellent sets and added three points.

The victory extended PLDT’s winning streak to three games, improving its record  to 6-1 to wrest the solo lead.

PLDT coach Rald Ricafort said he is not expecting spectacular performances from his stalwarts, but simply wants them to stick to the team’s system.

“It’s all about discipline. Yun ang gusto naming i-impose sa game na ito at natupad naman,” he said.

“Sabi ko hindi kailangang maglaro ng extra special; basta laruin lang nila yung sistema namin,” he added.

Savi Davison unleashed another impressive game, pumping in 21 points including 18 attacks, while Alleiah Malaluan added 10 points highlighted by seven kills.

The High Speed Hitters dominated in all departments, unleashing 43 kills while adding nine blocks and six aces. In contrast, the Highrisers managed 37 attacks, four blocks, and a single ace.

Galeries Tower skidded to its fifth loss in seven outings, with no player scoring in double figures.

Gayle Pascual was limited to nine points, even as Aiza Pontillas and Erika Deloria were held to seven points apiece.

Eya Laure, three others join Choco Mucho Flying Titans

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

At A Glance

• The development was unveiled at the stroke of midnight on Thursday, Jan. 1, signaling a bold reset for the squad still chasing its elusive breakthrough title.

Choco Mucho Flying Titans Facebook

The Choco Mucho Flying Titans rang in the new year with a major roster shake-up, bolstering their lineup for the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference by adding Eya Laure, Jaila Atienza and Alina Bicar, while welcoming back Caitlin Viray.

The development was unveiled at the stroke of midnight on Thursday, Jan. 1, signaling a bold reset for the squad still chasing its elusive breakthrough title.

“A NEW ERA BEGINS,” the post read. “The Choco Mucho Flying Titans welcome four new players to the team! They bring the grit, speed, and fire that will make every match unforgettable.”

“Ube Nation, get ready to cheer louder than ever for Jaila Atienza, Caitlin Viray, Alina Bicar, and Eya Laure!” it added.

Laure, 26, is returning to the league after a year-long absence due to a non-compete clause. She last played for the Chery Tiggo Crossovers in 2024.

The 5-foot-10 outside hitter brings valuable international experience from her stints with the national team, including a silver-medal finish at the AVC Nations Cup and back-to-back bronze medals at the SEA V.League.

Atienza, Bicar and Viray, for their part, are expected to bring depth and experience to the crew that already has Maddie Madayag, Kat Tolentino, Des Cheng and Isa Molde, to name a few.

The development also came after the team management decided not to renew the contracts of Royse Tubino, Bia General, Cherry Nunag and Aduke Agunsanya.

Mentored by Dante Alinsunurin, the Flying Titans seek to eclipse their performances in previous conferences. Last season, they finished fourth in the All-Filipino, 10th in PVL on Tour, and ninth in the Reinforced.

Alex Eala, Bryan Bagunas flag-bearers for Team PH in Thailand SEAG

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Dec 2, 2025 03:04 pm

At A Glance

• Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas, two athletes who have exemplified their talents in their respective sports, have been selected as the country's flag-bearers in the parade of athletes for the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand on Dec. 9.

Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas, two athletes who have exemplified their talents in their respective sports, have been chosen as the country's flag-bearers in the parade of athletes for the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand on Dec. 9.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino made the announcement on Tuesday, Dec. 2, citing the contribution the two athletes have made in Philippine tennis and men's volleyball, respectively.

“Popularity aside, Alex and Bryan have made impacts in the global sports community and that makes them the best choice to carry the flag in the SEA Games,” said Tolentino.

The country has been assigned a 300-member delegation for the parade around the Rajamangala National Stadium in the opening ceremony, but the number could possibly be trimmed to 200 due to the year-long mourning for Queen Sirikit  and the Songkhla disaster.

Close to 1,700 Filipino athletes are competing in this year's edition that has 574 events in 50 sports and will now be played in two main hubs—Bangkok and Chonburi—after Songkhla was written off because of massive flooding.

Eala has been one of the country's top sports stars after a phenomenal season that saw her rise from No. 148 early this year to No. 50 -- the highest-ranked ever by any Filipina player in history -- that was highlighted by historic victories in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour.

She also became the first Filipina to get past the first round of the US Open.

Bagunas, on the other hand, was the main man of the Alas Pilipinas Men’s Team in the FIVB World Championship last September, spearheading a history victory—over many-time African champion Egypt—in an FIVB competition.

Tolentino said that the choice for flag-bearer or flag-bearers have always been an important task of the POC and the athlete or athletes who have the most impact and inspirational appeal not only to national athletes but to the Filipino youth gain the most premium in the selection.

“It’s about the inspirational appeal, the motivation and hard-work that reaps accomplishment that make an athlete or athletes the best choice for the chore,” Tolentino said.

At the 2023 edition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, volleyball star Alyssa Valdez was the flag-bearer at the opening ceremony.

Alex Eala clashes with Japanese rival in second round of Jingshan Open

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Sep 24, 2025 01:27 pm

At A Glance

• Alex Eala is expected to build on her opening-round victory when she clashes with Mei Yamaguchi in the Round of 16 of the Jingshan Tennis Open in China on Thursday, Sept. 25.

Alex Eala is the only Top 100 WTA player in the Jingshan Tennis Open. (File Photo/AP)

Alex Eala is expected to build on her opening-round victory when she clashes with Mei Yamaguchi in the Round of 16 of the Jingshan Tennis Open in China on Thursday, Sept. 25.

The top-seeded Eala is coming off a 6-3, 7-5 triumph over Belarusian Aliona Falei the other day to kick off her campaign in this WTA125 tournament.

The only Top 100 WTA player in the event with a No. 58 ranking, Eala is favored against her 26-year-old Japanese rival as the Filipina boasts of having won her maiden WTA title at the Guadalajara Open in Mexico early this year.

Yamaguchi, meanwhile, advanced to the next round after routing Hong Kong’s Hong Yi Cody Wong, 6-4, 6-1. Ranked No. 268 in the WTA, the Japanese has two International Tennis Federation (ITF) singles titles under her belt.

She last competed in the WTA circuit last August, where she lost in the first qualifying round of the W100 Monterrey in Mexico.

A victory for Eala would book her a quarterfinals meeting with local bet Lu Jia-Jing and Indian Riya Bhatia.

Lu, 35, bucked an opening set stumble and turned back Ekaterina Reyngold, 7-6 (5), 6-4, 6-4, while Bhatia stunned Chinese fifth seed Gao Xinyu, 6-4, 1-6, 6-3.